The media and popular culture present idealized images of the Christmas season - Currier and Ives postcard pictures of what the holidays are supposed to be, says Boyer-Patrick.

Years ago, the hype began after Thanksgiving. Now, she says, it seems that the Christmas promotions start with Labor Day.

Stress is created when you can't achieve what you think you're supposed to, Boyer-Patrick says. Holiday stress is created when expectations are unrealistic - when expectations are based in a storybook vision and not in reality.

Holiday parties - with so many treats - can be a problem. Set some limits. Excessive indulgence will make you feel bad.

But don't skimp on nutrition. So many people skip supper to rush out shopping right after work. Bogley recommends packing a little protein and a vegetable - something easily heated in the office microwave. Take a few minutes to relax and recharge.

Prioritize, Bogley recommends. Make a "not-to-do list" as well as a list of things you want to get done.

Her own trick is to make a list and highlight the must-dos. An alternative is to put the less critical tasks on a sticky note behind a list of higher priority jobs. If you get to them - fine. If not, "It's still going to be Christmas," she says.

Be flexible, Wilson recommends. Feel free to start new traditions. Maybe your family wants to do something to help others. Maybe your children can give a gift to the community by singing in a choir.

Wilson remembers her sons lamenting that she was selling the "homeplace" when she sold the home in which they had grown up. "No," she told them. "Wherever we're together is home."

Christmas shouldn't be just about presents, decorations, parties.

Don't overspend. Get back to basics. Keep it simple. Appreciate what you have. Enjoy the pleasure of being with your family, Boyer-Patrick says.